#i will most likely update this post in the future with links to each post i make

[hivemuthur]

The Game of Teaching Body - Ch. 1.

viktorxfemale!reader mature! (for now, I will mark later chapters as explicit when the time comes)

AU university, AU modern era, slow burn, frenemies to lovers, teasing, pinning, banter, eventual romance and therefore smut, Viktor is simultaneously a menace and needs a hug, TA Viktor

Ch. 2. | Ch.3. | Ch.4. | Ch.5. | Ch.6. | Ch.7. | Ch.8. | Ch.9. | Ch.10. | Ch.11. | Ch.12.

word count: 4,3K

tag: #the game of teaching body

summary: Reader is a second-year science student that had just switched schools to escape the suffocating love of her parents and Viktor is being a black cat all the way through. A 12-chapter story of two emotionally problematic people falling in love through acknowledging each other's imperfections.

author's note: This is less introspective than my other fics, attempts to be lighter and funny at times. World is completely made up, even though contains some real things in it. Viktor's disability is present, but decreased (no back brace and breathing affliction). I will soon create fic masterlist and pin it on my blog and will be linking chapters with future updates.

Cross-posted on AO3 + POV3rd Person Version

—

You sat wedged between a hot, doe-eyed girl named Sue who was going to be your roommate, and some skinny guy whose name you hadn’t caught—Callum, maybe? Your friend Hale had ditched you to join his theatre group on the other side of the campus, leaving you to navigate introductions with your new course mates alone. Changing universities mid-degree was stressful, but staying back in Sheffield with your parents had been worse. So, yes, it had been the right call. A very good call, you reminded yourself.

Camden had a tiny science department with a handful of brilliant professors. It wasn’t the best, but it wasn’t Sheffield. And it had Hale, who had convinced you to come down south with promises of freedom, self-discovery, and the chance to reclaim your status as the unstoppable friend power-couple you’d been in high school (not that you had mattered at all back then, of course).

The room buzzed with overlapping conversations and sporadic bursts of laughter, the faint thrum of inoffensive pop music humming from a Bluetooth speaker in the corner. The second-year welcome party was more like a casual gathering, hosted in one of the university lounges with just enough couches and harsh fluorescent lighting to feel awkwardly cozy. You sipped from a plastic cup of lukewarm cider, your attention flitting between three different conversations happening around you.

To your left, Jayce was in the middle of an animated retelling of how he’d nearly blown up a lab during his undergrad years. His booming laugh and sweeping hand gestures kept everyone engaged, even those who had only half-heard the setup to his punchline. You found yourself smiling despite having missed most of the story. You vaguely recalled his introduction earlier in the evening—Jayce, one of the TAs for your course this year. From Sheffield, like you. Big personality, bigger grin.

On your right stood Viktor, the second TA, his hands resting lightly on his cane. He exuded a quieter kind of presence, his sharp amber eyes scanning the group with an air of detached curiosity. He’d joined the circle mid-conversation, offering the occasional dry comment that earned chuckles from those paying attention.

“You’re training to be a geneticist?” Viktor asked, leaning slightly toward you. His accent caught you off guard—it was Slavic, you thought, though you weren’t confident enough to guess further. You made a mental note to ask him about it one day.

You blinked, surprised to be addressed. “Oh, yeah,” you replied quickly, nodding. “Second year. Still deciding whether I want to focus on medical or research applications, though.” You paused. “You’re in bioengineering for your PhD, right?”

“Correct,” Viktor said with a slight upward quirk of his lips. “It is refreshing to meet someone undecided. Most claim they will change the world before finishing their first term.”

You laughed nervously, unsure if he was mocking you or just making an observation. “Yeah, I’m saving that for third year.”

Viktor raised an eyebrow, his expression hovering somewhere between amused and sceptical. “Ambitious,” he said dryly.

Before you could respond, Jayce turned toward you, pulling the group’s focus with him. “What about you? Have you had Professor Albin yet? He’s a character, let me tell you. Loves his experiments more than his students.”

You grinned, drawn into the shift in energy. “Oh, yeah, I’ve heard about him. But wait, is he the one who smokes under the laboratory fume hood?”

Jayce snapped his fingers in mock recognition. “Exactly! Last year, he almost caused the whole building to evacuate because he didn’t realise the hood was broken.”

The group erupted into laughter. You found yourself relaxing, leaning into the easy rhythm of the conversation. You missed the glance Viktor cast your way, faintly bemused.

He cleared his throat, a subtle gesture that drew only a few eyes. “Albin may be forgetful, but he has published groundbreaking work on single-cell RNA sequencing. One might forgive the eccentricities, no?”

The remark hung in the air for a beat, slightly out of sync with the conversation’s playful tone. Jayce, quick to keep the mood light, grinned and waved it off. “True, but it doesn’t make his lectures any less painful.”

The laughter resumed, bubbling back up with ease. You smiled, but something about Viktor’s expression lingered in your mind—a subtle tightness around his mouth, almost imperceptible but impossible to ignore once noticed.

You thought to say something, maybe steer the conversation back toward him, but Jayce was already pulling your attention with another question, his energy impossible to resist. The moment slipped away, and with it, that fleeting glimpse of something unreadable in Viktor’s eyes.

The party dispersed shortly after midnight, and you went to find Hale for the promised cigarette and your earlier-agreed session of impression comparing. You spotted him by the fountain, his tall figure hunched over in his velvet vest, already smoking.

“My darling!” he exclaimed, throwing his arms wide in a theatrical flourish. “So, spill the tea—how was it? Anyone hot? Anyone you already hate? Good decision? Bad decision?”

“Uh… Can I bum a fag? I forgot my pack in the room.” You patted your pockets distractedly as Hale swept you into his arms, spinning you around dramatically. He placed his own cigarette between your lips with a flourish.

“I’m going to burst if you don’t tell me right now. Your mother already hates me—I need to know you don’t hate me too!”

“Joanne is going to be fine,” you replied, rolling your eyes but letting yourself be twirled in your exaggerated tango. “She already sent me, like, a thousand affirmations for my ‘new beginnings.’”

Hale dipped you low, grinning. “And?”

“I… don’t know,” you sighed as he held you in the dramatic pose. “It’s a bunch of nerds, like me, so I guess I’ll be alright.”

Hale gave you a pointed look, his brow furrowing. “You are not just some nerd. You are brilliant, and they are not ready for you.” He placed a soft kiss on your forehead, his voice gentle but firm.

“Alright, alright,” you muttered, waving him off with a small smile. “Full report is as follows: Sue, my roommate—hot and completely oblivious about it. Nobody else really standing out. It’s an even mix of guys and girls.” You started pacing along the edge of the fountain, ticking details off on your fingers. “We’ve got two TAs: one would make you drool, and the other one would make you run for your life.”

“I have to meet them both,” Hale declared with a dramatic flourish, grinning mischievously.

Hale twirled you one last time before pulling you upright with exaggerated care. “You’re lucky I’m such a gracious dance partner, darling,” he said, letting you go with a flourishing bow.

You laughed and brushed your hair out of your face. “Oh, you’re too kind. I didn’t know you’d start your evening in full drama mode.”

Hale smirked, looping his arm through yours as you strolled around the fountain. The air was crisp, the faint glow of the nearby building lights reflecting off the water. “I’m always in drama mode. You know this. Now, tell me—what’s the plan tomorrow? More parties? Some secret nerd ritual?”

You rolled your eyes, nudging him with your shoulder. “Yes, we are totally raising someone from the dead tomorrow,” you smirked. “The TAs are swinging by each room tomorrow to hand out schedules and do a quick orientation. Viktor mentioned it tonight in passing.”

Hale gasped dramatically, clutching his chest. “Viktor, you say? Is that the one who would make me drool or the one who’d send me running for my life?”

You laughed. “The latter. He’s got this whole ‘intimidating genius’ vibe going on, but I can’t tell if he’s just really smart or if he practices those broody stares in the mirror.”

“Oh, I have to meet this man,” Hale said with a gleam in his eye, spinning you around. “And what about the one who’d make me drool?”

“That’s Jayce,” you replied. “Big, loud, charming. Like a golden retriever who also happens to be jacked and into science.”

Hale pretended to swoon, leaning on you for support. “Be still, my heart. This place might actually be worth sticking around for.”

You smirked, brushing ash off your borrowed cigarette. “Speaking of sticking around, how was your night? Any tragic love stories waiting to happen?”

Hale shrugged nonchalantly, but there was a glint of mischief in his eyes. “Same old faces, same old dramas. Nothing new. Nobody around here who could really crush my heart, but you know me—I’ll eat anything when I’m starved.”

You snorted, shaking your head. “That’s the spirit. Settle for mediocrity!”

“It’s a survival skill, darling,” Hale replied, grinning as he plucked the cigarette from your fingers and took a long drag.

You walked in silence for a moment, your steps slow and unhurried. You glanced at the fountain, its gentle ripples catching the light, and exhaled a breath you hadn’t realised you were holding.

“I think it was a good decision,” you said softly, breaking the quiet.

Hale raised an eyebrow, handing the cigarette back to you. “Camden? Or letting me drag you here tonight?”

“Both,” you admitted, a small smile playing at your lips. “Thanks for making me come. For once, I actually feel… scared of something. Not stuck.”

Hale’s expression softened, and he threw an arm around your shoulders, pulling you close. “That’s because you’re brilliant, and the world doesn’t stand a chance against you.”

You rolled your eyes but leaned into the gesture, taking one last drag of the cigarette before flicking it into the fountain.

“Here’s to not being stuck,” Hale declared, lifting an imaginary glass.

“To not being stuck,” you echoed, laughing as the two of you turned and headed back toward the dorms.

***

The sound that woke you and Sue was impossible to describe—a cacophony of metal being violently banged together, accompanied by a high-pitched whining noise. Then came loud banging on the door.

A soft groan came from Sue’s bed as she rolled out, stretching her limbs before sinking onto the floor and curling into a foetal position. “I think it’s the TAs,” she said weakly, yawning.

You decided to be brave, though your first instinct was to shove a pillow over your head and wait for the monster to go away. Dragging yourself out of bed, your head pounding from the cider and cigarettes you’d had with Hale the night before, you trudged to the door. Your expression was one of pure pleading as you opened it and asked, “Is this really how you guys want to start this relationship?”

In front of you, Jayce froze mid-motion, one frying pan held in each hand. Viktor stood just behind him, clutching a bicycle horn and smirking mercilessly.

“Good morning, sunshine!” Jayce boomed, lowering the frying pans slightly but keeping his grin firmly in place, like a weapon. “Ready to seize the day?”

You squinted, shielding your eyes from the hallway light as though it were a personal attack. “Seize the day? I’m about to seize your frying pans and toss them out the window.”

Jayce laughed, completely unbothered, while Viktor raised the bicycle horn and gave it a sharp honk. “Consider it your wake-up call,” Viktor said smoothly, his smirk deepening. “Promptness is a virtue, no?”

“I’m promptly considering murder,” you muttered, glaring at them both.

Behind you, Sue groaned from her spot on the floor. “I’m not coming out. Tell them I’m dead.”

Jayce leaned sideways to peer into the room. “Good morning to you too, Sue!” he called cheerfully.

“Sod off,” Sue replied, her voice muffled by her arm.

Viktor glanced at Jayce, shaking his head slightly as though disapproving of his partner’s antics. Then he turned his attention back to you. “We are here to distribute schedules and perform a brief orientation,” he said, his tone more measured but no less smug. “You should be grateful. Only the science department students receive such... personal service.”

You crossed your arms, raising an eyebrow. “Yeah, I feel so special. Is banging cookware a requirement of this personal service, or is it just a special treat for us?”

“Just for you,” Jayce said with a wink. “And hey, it worked, didn’t it? You’re awake.”

You sighed, stepping back to let them into the room. “Fine. Come in. But if you touch anything, I’m calling security.”

Jayce sauntered in like he owned the place, plopping the frying pans onto the desk with a loud clang. Viktor followed more quietly, his eyes sweeping the room in a quick, assessing glance. He placed the bicycle horn next to the pans, the absurdity of the scene making you shake your head in disbelief.

“You’re like two chaotic sitcom characters,” you said, rubbing your temples. “And I’m the poor, sleep-deprived protagonist who has to deal with your nonsense.”

Jayce grinned. “I like to think of myself as the lovable goofball.”

“And Viktor’s the straight man?” you guessed, glancing at him.

Viktor’s lips twitched, but he didn’t respond immediately. Instead, he handed you a neatly folded piece of paper. “Your schedule,” he said. “I trust you can manage to read it despite your current... condition.” He gave you a once-over and added, “Nice pyjamas.”

You looked down at yourself, remembering too late that you were wearing red cotton pants with white hearts and an oversized Nirvana sweatshirt. It was a damn nice set of pyjamas—what was the problem? You snatched the paper from him, your mouth twitching into a reluctant smile despite yourself. “Thanks. I’ll try not to faint from gratitude.”

“Much appreciated,” Viktor replied dryly.

Sue, still sprawled on the floor, finally raised her head and groaned. “Do we at least get coffee with this torture?”

Jayce perked up. “Now that’s an idea! Viktor, we should’ve brought coffee.”

“I am not your barista,” Viktor deadpanned.

You couldn’t help but laugh, the absurdity of the morning starting to chip away at your hangover. “Alright, alright. Give us five minutes, and we’ll join the rest of the poor souls you’ve terrorized this morning.”

“Make it three,” Viktor said, his smirk returning as he turned toward the door.

Jayce followed with a wave. “See you downstairs!”

As the door closed behind them, you turned to Sue, who was now sitting up, her hair a wild mess.

“So,” you said, leaning against the door. “Drool-worthy or run-for-your-life?”

Sue blinked, still half-asleep. “What?”

“The TAs,” you clarified, holding back a grin. “Jayce and Viktor. What’s the verdict?”

Sue rubbed her eyes, yawning. “Jayce is like a golden retriever on caffeine. Viktor... is something else. Sharp. Kinda scary. But, like, in a hot way?”

You snorted, tossing the schedule onto your desk. “I’m just trying to survive their weird buddy cop energy.”

Sue flopped back onto the floor with a groan. “Wake me up when it’s over.”

You shook your head, a smile tugging at your lips. “It’s never over, Sue. Welcome to Camden.”

***

Orientation and the first classes passed in a blur of introductions, schedules, and information overload. By the time the fifth person introduced themselves, you’d already forgotten the first three names. Professor Heimerdinger, perched at the front of the lab like an animated encyclopaedia, launched into an overview of the semester: rules for grades and exams, expectations for in-class behaviour, and a note about optional after-class activities for the particularly ambitious—or masochistic.

You braced yourself for the inevitable repeat classes like chemistry and biophysics, but it didn’t bother you. Repetition wasn’t so bad if you could zone out without missing much.

Jayce and Viktor drifted through the room during the lecture, their presence oddly complementary—one buzzing with boundless energy, the other moving with deliberate precision. They pointed out key locations: lab glass, gloves, coats, goggles, and the cabinets you’d definitely forget the moment you walked out. They handed out maps of the department and listed their office hours. Standard procedure. Functional. Dandy.

When it was finally over, Sue nudged you, a mischievous glint in her eye. “Wanna head to the bar nearby?”

“You want to drink again?” You raised an eyebrow, though her expression hinted at ulterior motives.

Sue tilted her head, all innocence. “Or… maybe I want to go to the bar to spy on our TAs,” she said, her gaze trailing after Jayce and Viktor as they left the room.

You sighed, exasperated but amused. “By my calculations, we have about a week to live before we’re buried in coursework.”

“Exactly! We should enjoy it while it lasts.” Sue clasped her hands together and unleashed the puppy eyes. “Please?” she added, her lower lip quivering with Oscar-worthy conviction.

You rolled your eyes, defeated. “I am genuinely terrified of you. And convinced I’ll never be able to say no to you. Fine. One condition: I get to drag Hale along.”

“Is Hale your hot theatre friend?” Sue’s excitement was palpable, her grin wide enough to make you laugh.

“Yes, and he’s also gay, so don’t get your hopes up. He’ll break your heart,” you warned, pulling out your phone to text him.

“I am desperate for a gay boyfriend, so please drag him along whenever you feel like it,” Sue replied, already on her feet, coat slung over her arm.

Your phone buzzed almost instantly: I know the place – seedy shithole. Be there in no time! Hale’s response sealed the deal. You were officially going to a bar to “spy” on your TAs.

The bar was, indeed, a seedy shithole, but it had a quirky charm. Posters plastered the walls, advertising plays, gigs, and questionable student endeavours. Lamps made of beer bottles cast a dim, golden light, and the furniture was an eclectic mix—like someone had raided every grandmother’s attic in a three-mile radius. A fireplace crackled in one corner, surrounded by mismatched cushions for floor seating, and a jukebox stood proudly by the bar, humming with potential.

You approached the bar with Sue, scanning the menu. Sue’s brows furrowed in confusion as she searched for something that wasn’t beer. The bartender, a man with a weathered face and a disarming smile, leaned in. “What can I do for you, honey?”

Sue’s voice turned soft and sweet, almost like a fairy casting a spell. “Do you have anything… sweet?”

The bartender paused, giving her a look like he’d climb mountains to fetch whatever she wanted. For a moment, you wondered if he might actually run to another bar, buy something sugary, and bring it back. The thought made you chuckle as you watched Sue charm her way to a perfect drink.

“Let me surprise you,” the bartender said, flashing Sue a sweet smile before turning to you. “And for you, darling?”

“I’ll just have a pint, cheers,” you replied, your gaze lingering on the heartwarming interaction between the adorable Sue and the massive, tattooed bartender.

“Ah! Let me get this,” you registered an arm sliding between you and Sue, holding a credit card. “Since we forgot the coffees this morning,” Jayce’s familiar grin soon followed, putting a face to the offering hand.

“I’ll be the one buying drinks for my pookie today,” a strong arm wrapped around your neck and shoulders, and you immediately recognized Hale’s voice from above you. “Let me guess… drool-worthy and”—his eyes shifted toward Viktor—“run-for-your-life?”

“I’ve also been called ‘the straight man,’” Viktor remarked, giving you a questioning look.

“Ah, I can see why,” Hale replied, on the verge of ruining your chances for any semblance of dignity this semester. Then he turned to Sue. “And you must be the hot Sue?”

“Oh my god, did you say that?” Sue squeaked playfully, leaning over to grab your hand. “I think you’re hot too,” she added with a wink.

You wanted to sink deep underground and let the demons of hell swallow you whole.

Waiting for your drink to be poured, you watched Jayce, Sue, and Hale drift toward the fireplace sitting area, Hale’s arm already wrapped around your roommate as they chatted animatedly.

“You seem to have a lot of opinions already formed,” Viktor’s voice came from above your shoulder as he reached for his drink—a vodka on the rocks.

“Keep looking at me like that, and I’ll indeed run for my life,” you shot back, narrowing your eyes at him, a playful smirk tugging at your lips.

Viktor raised an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth twitching with amusement. “Is that so?” His tone was smooth, with just a hint of challenge.

“Absolutely,” you replied, leaning in slightly with mock seriousness. “You’re giving off dangerous, 'I’ve got a sarcastic comment for everything' vibes. It's a threat.”

Viktor chuckled, the sound warm and surprisingly disarming. “A threat, huh? I’ll have to be careful then.” He took a sip of his drink, his eyes glinting. “Don’t worry. I won’t bite.”

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t stop the smile forming at the edge of your mouth. “I wasn’t worried.”

For a moment, you both stood there, the noise of the bar buzzing around you. Viktor’s gaze lingered a moment too long, making you feel slightly off balance. Then, with a casual shrug, he turned back to the group by the fireplace.

“Let’s go join the chaos,” he said nonchalantly, throwing you a brief glance over his shoulder as he walked away.

You followed, still trying to shake the unexpected buzz of the encounter. It was weird how Viktor could throw you off without even trying.

By the time you approached the group, Hale had already charmed Jayce and Sue, effortlessly pulling them into his world with animated tales of his theatre exploits. He gestured enthusiastically, his voice rich with excitement. “So, we’re doing Rocky Horror Picture Show this year for the mid-semester final,” he announced, his theatrical tone drawing everyone in. “We’re looking for actors—are any of you up for it?”

Sue, looking both intrigued and a little unsure, glanced over at Jayce, who was already grinning. “I’m afraid that my singing would have you fail the final, Hale,” Jayce said with a laugh, clearly weighing the possibilities. “I will gladly come and watch, though?”

Hale grinned wider. “I’ll put you in the front row! And Y/N’s been trying to convince me to take on Frank N. Furter’s part, which made me think she’d make a killer Janet.”

At that, you couldn’t help but roll your eyes, your playful tone cutting through the banter. “Only if I can play Magenta,” you said, tossing your head back slightly. “Otherwise, it's a no-go.”

The group chuckled, but Jayce, who had been half-listening as they continued talking, suddenly perked up. “Wait, hold on. Are you both actually from Sheffield?” He leaned forward slightly, clearly curious.

You smirked, folding your arms across your chest and leaning in, dropping the playful façade for a second. “I don’t have my Pulp T-shirt on me today,” you quipped, “but I can show you my ID?”

Raising an eyebrow, you knew full well that a bit of playful sarcasm could spark a reaction. Viktor, standing just a few steps behind, glanced over at you as your words hit the air. His eyes flicked between you and Jayce, his attention sharpened but still calm, like he was quietly enjoying your back-and-forth with the others.

Jayce laughed, shaking his head. “You really are from Sheffield, aren’t you?”

“Born and bred,” you shot back with a grin, your hands slipping into your pockets. “Don’t let the accent fool you.”

Viktor took a small sip of his drink, a glimmer of amusement flickering in his gaze as he continued to watch you. You had a way of carrying yourself—like you knew how to hold your ground, even when teasing. And now that you had mentioned it, there was a non-Sheffield accent lingering underneath your words.

“Eh, it’s not a place for stars like us,” Hale mused, giving your thigh a playful squeeze.

“My darling, brilliant man, you know all I wish for you is to never step foot in that shithole again and rise to stardom so fast the bystanders get their eyes burned,” you replied with a dramatic flourish, your grin wide and teasing.

Jayce laughed, raising his beer. “Well, before anyone dies burned by Hale’s halo, I guess we could all drag along back for Christmas together?”

“Jayce, if there is anything to drag by then, be my guest,” you responded with a quiet clank of your glass against Jayce’s.

“Oh yes, Christmas is a must. I have to bring a peace offering to Y/N’s mother for stealing her precious daughter away from the family nest,” Hale said, making an exaggerated frightened face when mentioning your mum, Joanne.

“Hale, repeat after me: Joanne is going to be fine. It’s about time she grows up.”

***

Jayce and Viktor walked down the dimly lit street, the buzz of the bar still echoing in their steps. The night air was cool, and the muffled sounds of laughter and music faded behind them as they made their way back to the dorms.

“I love freshmen,” Jayce said, a grin tugging at his lips.

Viktor shot him a sidelong glance. “That’s disturbing.”

“Come on, they’re cute.” Jayce shrugged; his tone playful. “Good idea with the morning orchestra, by the way. Got them all riled up.”

Viktor’s lips twitched at the memory. “The girls sure have their eyes on you.” He looked at Jayce, raising an eyebrow. “You planning on visiting Y/N’s family for Christmas already?”

Jayce laughed. “I don’t know, man. I have a feeling her eyes are actually on you.”

Viktor paused mid-step, narrowing his eyes. “She literally called me 'the straight man' and the 'run-for-your-life-one.' I highly doubt it.”

Jayce nudged him with his elbow. “You know nothing about girls, Viktor.” Viktor gave him a sceptical look, but Jayce’s grin only grew wider, and for once, Viktor couldn't help but wonder if Jayce was right.

[wonbloom]

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐝

- 𝐚𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐲𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

in this series i bring you 7 stories about 7 members based on my favourite romance tropes!!

each fic will be posted weekly so stay tuned, alternatively, feel free to let me know if you'd like to be added to my taglist (comment or send me an ask!) so you can be first to know when i post a fic!

all links, warnings and post dates will be updated accordingly !!

───── ⑅ ♡ ⑅ ─────

knight in shining armour (damsel in distress)

pairing: lee heeseung x fem!reader

summary: it was pretty tiring being the townspeople’s favourite damsel in distress, and you were running out of handkerchiefs to give as thanks to the brave men that make their way through your humble town. good job a particularly handsome knight was willing to accept another form of payback as a token of your affection.

warnings: 18+

posted: tbd

───── ⑅ ♡ ⑅ ─────

all i really want (office romance)

pairing: park jongseong x fem!reader

summary: your boss was an ass, making you stay late every night when she leaves at 5 on the dot. it seemed your only company was gus the janitor until the fateful night when you bumped into jay from the floor below. maybe your long nights didn’t need to be so lonely.

warnings: 18+

posted: tbd

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long way to go (sports romance)

pairing: jake sim x fem!reader

summary: forgetting to sign up for extra credit courses was so insanely unlike you, but it happened. leaving you here; assistant manager of your college's star soccer team. enter jake sim. captain, star player, and resident pain in your ass. good thing he hates you too, so you think, anyway.

warnings: 18+

posted: tbd

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heart out (roommates to lovers)

pairing: park sunghoon x fem!reader

summary: when the apartment of your dreams comes with a slight hitch - the roommate from hell - there's only one way to solve the problem. a five step fool proof plan to exact revenge and drive him out. there's no way it could backfire.

warnings: 18+

posted: tbd

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sugar mouse (small town romance)

pairing: kim sunoo x fem!reader

summary: going to stay with your great aunt in the middle of nowhere didn't exactly sound like the most exhilarating use of your summer, but at least you could get some good time sunbathing in. and the cute boy who worked at your aunt's favourite bakery was easy enough on the eyes. hopefully he tastes just as sweet.

warnings: 18+

posted: tbd

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take me to your best friend's house (boy next door)

pairing: yang jungwon x fem!reader

summary: yang jungwon has been your best friend since you were 8 years old. now, 10 years down the line and you're still inseparable. as the end of senior year approaches, both you and jungwon have some decisions to make, regarding your future and the feelings that threaten to change your relationship forever.

warnings: 18+

posted: tbd

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she looks so perfect (opposites attract)

pairing: nishimura riki x fem!reader

summary: from an outsider's perspective, it would be hard to understand how a goody two shoes like you ended up with someone like riki, but it just worked. when you accidentally overhear something you weren't meant to, it sparks an idea, maybe the good girl should go bad after all.

warnings: 18+

posted: tbd

───── ⑅ ♡ ⑅ ─────

a/n: ahhh!! my first series on here!! i hope you’re excited ro read :))) this is my valentines gift to u all xoxo

let me know which fic ur most excited for! i’ll let you guys decide which order i post in :3

tysm for reading!!

- lux xoxo

[marcyvamp1re-blog]

⺌☆. . . MASTERLIST ───  . DC & Marvel

☆...Original art; discount-supervillain

「 The list is updated daily. If you'd like to see a character on this list, please request it or ask in the comments if they can be added.

Below is a list of links. If at any point none of them work, please send me a message or comment below the list mentioning the issue, and I will fix it immediately. Not all links have visible warnings from the outside. Most do not have explicit warnings. However, if you're interested in any particular link, I recommend opening it and checking the warnings within each post to understand its content.

Also, if you see some titles without a link, it may be because they are not yet made or haven't been published yet.」

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Welcome to the DC Section—Tread Carefully, or Darkseid Will Get You!

─── SUPERMAN Clark Kent

☆...Reporter by day, hero by night… and also by day! The real star-man. Can lift buildings, see through walls, and give Lex Luthor a heart attack just by existing.

Its Evolution, Baby! Yandere Clark Kent x Inmortal! Reader [old post]

Quimera Yandere! Clark Kent x Android reader.

─── BATMAN Bruce Wayne

☆...Billionaire by day, vigilante by night… and apparenty, never sleeps. His superpowers? Money and being Gotham’s most wanted bachelor.

Revenant Platonic! Yandere! Bruce Wayne x neglected! Reader. (Silly Little Bat AU)

─── WONDER WOMAN Diana Prince

☆...Amazonian princess, warrior goddess, and the reason many reconsider which side they’re fighting for.

To the future Diana Prince x Wife! Preg! Reader

─── SUPERBOY Conner Kent

☆...Half Superman, half Lex Luthor—because cloning is never a good idea. Too cool for school, too powerful for his own good, and forever stuck between "punch first" and "think later."

The Jubilee Conner Kent x Jubilee! Reader

───  ROBIN Damian Wayne

☆...Batman’s son, raised by assassins, and practically immortal. His favorite hobby? Reminding everyone he’s better than them.

Ponyo! Pt.1 Pt.2 Platonic! Damian Wayne x Ponyo! Reader.

The Wildcart series pt1 pt2 pt3 Platonic!Harley Quinn x Reader | Damian Wayne x Harley Daughter! Reader

─── RED ROBIN Tim Drake

☆...The Bat-Family’s teenage detective, the smart one. He probably solved this joke before you even finished reading it.

Nothing yet...

─── RED HOOD Jason Todd

☆...Once: Robin. Now: a guy with guns, authority issues, and serious family drama… well, just with his dad.

Nothing yet...

───  NIGHTWING Dick Grayson

☆...The original Boy Wonder with the best backside in comics. Leads teams, breaks hearts, and jumps rooftops like a pro.

Pierrot, the Sad Clown Yandere! Dick Grayson x Villainess! Reader

The Playboy Yandere! Student! Dick Grayson x depressed! Reader

─── ORPHAN / BATGIRL Cassandra Cain

☆...Doesn’t talk much, but doesn’t need to when she can take you down with a single look. Relax, she already knows everything about you.

Atelophobia Cassandra Cain x Asian! Fem reader!

─── HARLEY QUINN Harleen Quinzel

☆...From psychiatrist to villain, to hero, to whatever she wants to be today. Chaotic yet charming—everyone’s favorite girl

The Wildcart series pt1 pt2 pt3 Platonic!Harley Quinn x Reader | Damian Wayne x Harley Daughter! Reader

Sororal Platonic! Harley Quinn x Reader

─── POISON IVY Pamela Isley

☆...An eco-terrorist with style. Loves plants, eats meat, and hates humans… except for Harley. But let’s be real, Harley doesn’t really count as human.

But I, love Ivy Pamela Isley x Reader (Silly Little Bat)

Death in Bloom Pamela Isley x Male! Reader

─── LIVEWIRE Leslie L. Willem

☆...The rebel radio host with more voltage than a lightning storm. Don’t touch her unless you like frizzy hair… or want to risk your life!

Voicenote Leslie L. Willem x Male! Reader

Marvel’s Mightiest! Starting with Squirrel Girl—Because Even Galactus Fears Her!

─── WINTER SOLDIER Bucky Barnes

☆...Ex-sidekick, ex-brainwashed assassin, current broody guy with a metal arm. Still figuring things out.

Little Soldier Yandere! Platonic! Winter Soldier! Bucky Barnes x Supersoldier! Teen! Reader

Welcome to the 80's Yandere! Platonic! Steven Rogers x reader x Yandere! Platonic! Bucky Barnes

─── CAPTAIN AMERICA Steve Rogers

☆...Super-soldier, shield thrower, and America’s best boy scout. Can do this all day. He loves cookies...a lot.

Welcome to the 80's Platonic! Steven Rogers x reader x Platonic! Bucky Barnes

─── SPIDER-MAN Peter Parker & variants

☆...Wall-crawling, web-slinging, wise-cracking menace (according to J. Jonah Jameson). The amazing Spiderman!Just trying to balance life, rent, and saving New York...or Japan...or England, they are so many Spiders today! Damn multiverse!

Lacrymose Yandere! Cheater! Miguel O'Hara x Wife! Reader

─── VENOM Eddie Brock

☆...A journalist, a monster, and kind of a lethal protector. Likes brains, hates Spider-Man a lot.

The Monster Platonic Venom x Reader

─── SQUIRREL GIRL Doreen Green

☆...The unbeatable, unbreakable, unmatchable Squirrel Girl! She’s taken down Thanos, Galactus, and probably you in your sleep.

Balter Platonic! Doree Green x Mutant! Reader

─── PROFESSOR X Charles Xavier

☆...Mind-reader, mentor, and leader of the X-Men. Has a dream of mutant-human peace—if only Magneto would stop ruining it.

The Song of the Raven series Pt1 Pt2 Yandere! Platonic!Charles Xavier x Raven! reader x Yandere! Platonic! Erik Lehnsherr

─── MAGNETO Erik Lehnsherr

☆...Master of magnetism, enemy-turned-ally-turned-enemy-again. Probably right about mutants, but also probably too dramatic about it.

The Song of the Raven series Pt1 Pt2 Yandere! Platonic!Charles Xavier x Raven! reader x Yandere! Platonic! Erik Lehnsherr

Fata Morgana Yandere Erik Lehnsherr x Chubby! Witch! Reader

─── CYCLOPS Scott Summers

☆...The guy who can’t take off his sunglasses—unless he wants to level a city block. Team leader, rule follower, Jean Grey’s eternal headache!..or not.

Devil in Paradise Yandere! Scott Summers x Mutant!Reader

Little Pebble Yandere! Platonic! Scott Summers x Mutant!Reader

Bag of bones Yandere! Scott Summers x Amnesiac! Reader.

─── GAMBIT Remy LeBeau

☆...The smooth-talking, card-throwing Cajun thief. Can make anything explode—especially hearts.

Black Sheep Yandere! Platonic! Remy LeBeau x reader.

─── NIGHTCRAWLER Kurt Wagner

☆...A teleporting, acrobatic, demon-looking sweetheart. More Catholic guilt than your grandma. He's a baby boy.

Lurks Within Walls Yandere Kurt Wagner x Mutant! Reader

Nocturnal Animal Yandere Kurt Wagner x Wife! Reader

─── BEAST Hank McCoy

☆...A genius, a gentleman, and a giant blue fuzzball. Talks like Shakespeare, fights like a beast.

Savior Complex Yandere Hank McCoy x reader

─── STORM Ororo Munroe

☆...Controls the weather, commands respect, and makes every entrance legendary. A literal goddess.

My Pearl Yandere! Platonic! Ororo Munroe x Clon! Reader

─── PHOENIX Jean Grey

☆...Omega-level psychic, cosmic firebird, occasional planet-destroyer. She dies and comes back more often than a soap opera character.

Mourning Sun Yandere! Platonic! Jean Grey x Telepath! Reader

─── ROGUE Anna Marie

☆...One touch and she steals your powers, memories, and maybe your soul. Southern charm with a serious "hands-off" policy.

All I Wanted Anna Marie x Inmune! Reader

─── STAR-LORD Peter Quill

☆...Space outlaw, mixtape enthusiast, and self-proclaimed legendary hero. Usually messing things up in the best way possible.

Ramé Peter Quill x Astronaut! Reader

Nova Peter Quill x Alien! Reader

This part is under maintenance!

And finally, DOCTOR DOOM . Because all stories should end with Doom… at least according to him.

[stobotnikbigbang]

Stobotnik Big Bang 2025

Current stage: Artist and beta sign-ups are open here!

Timeline:

March 27th - Moderator Applications open.

April 8th - Moderator Applications closed and chosen

April 13th - Writer sign-ups open

April 27th - Writer sign-ups close

April 30th - Artist and Beta sign-ups open

May 13th - Artist and Beta sign-ups close

May 17th - All participants will be contacted and invited to the server; you may begin work on your pieces

May 31st - First check-in

June 21st - Second check-in

July 6th - Third check-in

July 27th - Fourth check-in

August 9th - Final check-in

August 15th-18th - Final deadline/posting of finished pieces

Requirements:

Writers: There is a 4000 word minimum for the event.

Artists: A minimum of one fully finished art piece.

Event Runner: EthanTheAnnus

Mods: Sentientflute, go2jail, agentquinn, kerbubbles

Tags:

SBB rb for reblogs.

SBB announcement for any updates or important information about the event.

SBB questions for any questions submitted and answered by the mod team about the event.

FAQ

What is a Big Bang?

A Big Bang is a fandom event wherein writers and artists come together to create! Typically, a writer will create a fic that meets a certain minimum length requirement, and an artist will create an art piece based upon that work. Writers and artists are paired up to work on their parts until the posting date, where the pieces are posted together!

Who can participate?

Any fans of the Stobotnik pairing are more than welcome to participate! This includes writers and artists, but we are also looking for beta readers and moderators. Currently, there is no cutoff for the number of participants.

How do I join?

Currently, artist and beta sign-ups are open! The first round of sign-ups was for writers, followed by artist and beta readers, who may input preferences for which project they would like to work on.

What happens after I sign up?

You will be contacted in DMs with the link to a Discord server, which will be the main hub for communication and check-ins. A Discord account will most likely be required for your participation in the event, but we are currently looking at possible alternative forms of communication if enough people request it. Can I write/draw NSFW?

As long as you are over 18, yes! There will be a question within the application to confirm you are 18 or older; if you lie about this to us, you will be removed from the event. It is also required that writing and art of this nature is appropriately tagged and warned upon posting.

Can I participate as both an artist and writer?

No. For the sake of us here in the mod team and everyone participating, it is far easier if each person only does one thing, so you will need to pick one or the other.

Is there a theme?

There is no theme; if we run another event in future, there may be, but for the 2025 Big Bang, there's no theme, so go wild!

I have a question not answered here.

Please check the event questions tag (#SBB Questions) before sending in an ask. If your question has not already been answered, then feel free to ask us!

Please also be aware that no generative AI is to be used in the creation of pieces for this event, nor may any of the pieces created for this event be used for generative AI purposes.

[starfirexuchiha]

My P5 Royal Tumblr Posts Directory

I made so many P5R related posts in the past so I decided to organize them and put the links to them in a post so that people, as well as myself, can easily find them!

Since I am a Shuake enthusiast, most of these links are Shuake-related posts which is not surprising lol. I will update this as I find more of my old posts.

Links to my Translation posts

P5R Guidebook Interview Translation - The Royal Trio is a “Love Triangle”

P5R Guidebook Interview Translation - Akechi is the Deuteragonist

P5R Guidebook Interview Translation - About Akechi’s silly Navi Line 

Navi Akechi Status Ailment Translations

Joker’s gay dream about going to the beach with Akechi Translation

Joker’s gay dream about going on a movie date with Akechi Translation

P5R Keychain Merch Translations

New P5R Goro keychain merch & ShuAke Flower Language Translations 

P5 Tactica Crow Trailer scene Translation (Contains Shuake rivalmance)

P5R Artbook Translation - Creator’s Comment on the Shuake “Bad Ending” artworks

P5R Artbook Interview Translation - Regarding the “Bad Ending” (Maruki Ending) and devs being aware of Shuake fans

P5R Magazine Translation for Rokuro Saito's comment on the Royal Trio

P5 Maniacus Magazine Translation - Confirmation that Akechi has the Wildcard ability

P5R Magazine - Translation for the Shuake Profiles

P5R Magazine - Translation about meeting Akechi in 3rd semester

Links to my Guides (including Translated Guides) posts

P5R: Akechi Confidant Dialogue Choices guide

How to make Akechi obtain his 3rd Tier Persona (Hereward) in P5R [Concise]

P5R Guidebook Translation on how to make Akechi obtain his 3rd Tier Persona (Hereward)

P5R Guidebook Translation for Akechi’s Confidant Guide

List of Gifts that each Male Confidant Likes

P5R: Complete Akechi Gift Guide

P5R: List of ♪♪♪ gifts for Akechi (With picture references)

Confidant Deadlines for Akechi, Maruki, and Sumi

How to get the Royal Trio PS4 theme

Links to my Theories/Meta posts

The Flower Meanings behind each P5R Flower Keychain Merch

Ryuji and Sunflowers

“Acedia” - Akechi’s deadly sin

Side Effect of using Call of Chaos

Black Mask Goro also represents a Harlequin

The meaning behind Paradise Lost (Joker’s strongest melee weapon)

The Symbolism behind Akechi’s Tie and Badge

Hereward is the First Robin Hood who is also unhinged

Faith, Hope, and Charity Arcanas and how it will foreshadow a future P5 Spinoff game

Akechi being undetectable

Shuake connection to Adam and Steve

P5 - “He made HIMSELF go psychotic!”

The events in P3 took place near Maruki’s palace

The Real reason why Akechi is unaffected by the dream world

Goro’s surname may be fake

“Night on the Galactic Railroad” references in Persona 5 Royal (ShuAke-related meta)

Links to Unused Content posts

3 Unused Farewell Gifts in P5R for 3/19

Some Unused Akechi Lines in Mementos

Unused Akechi Thieves Den conversations

Unused Shuake dialogue in Darts Game

Goro thinks shirtless Joker is distracting

P5R Unused Showtime Stickers

Prince Akechi has Unused Navi lines

Some Unused Akechi Costume Conversations

Unused Goro Texture File

More info about the Unused Goro Texture file

Unused scene where Goro is still alive after Maruki's Reality got destroyed

Unused Content - Goro’s Unused Mementos Request (Not my post but this is so interesting that I wanna bookmark this here)

Links to Misc and Trivia posts

Tsundere Akechi moments in P5R

Persona 5: Mementos Reports - Some Akechi Trivia

Akechi is also an artist

P5 Tactica Translation of Goro’s special dialogue to Joker 

Goro scaring Ryuji

Akechi wanting Joker to be his true self (independent of the player’s will)

Akechi’s Arcana card is mysteriously missing in the official P5 and P5R websites

List of times where Goro thinks Joker is attractive

Goro’s ENTJ quotes by cognitive functions

The Answer to whether or not Akechi is alive in P5R + Shuake moments

Goro has a warm tingly feeling

Goro being a jealous bitch in the Royal Trio Love Triangle (Not my post but I love bitchy Goro)

[lullabyalikpoptarot]

Masterlist 2

So, I had to make another Masterlist. I will not add every reading I have done, since my last Masterlist post, just the ones I want to highlight. Girl got no time for that. These are the newer readings I have done that I like to highlight. I focus heavily on TXT, Enhypen and BTS. I also like to do Ateez, Stray Kids and Seventeen. And venture to other groups from time to time. I am more into BG's, so I will post more of them than GG's. Groups are in alphabetical order.

I like to stress, none of my readings are fact. They are my interpretation of the cards and messages I get. My readings cover uncomfortable, sensitive, taboo and dark topics. If you are not into that I am not the reader for you. And although told my readings are more negative than others. I can't change that, It is what I get. I do not filter my readings to fit a narrative. I was pulled to post my readings for that reason to show the darker layers of the idols and industry. If you want fluff there are plenty of readers to find that. You have every right to ignore my readings. If you like to join me on this journey, welcome.

Here is a link to my old masterlist

&Team &Team's Personality Reading &Team's Group Dynamics

Aespa Aespa Ideal Partner Aespa Personality Reading Aespa Thoughts on being an idol Aespa's thoughts on being an idol Part 2

Ateez Hongjoong Perspective Reading San Perspective Reading Ateez cheating tendencies Who is currently in a relationships Ateez Thoughts on Marriage How they view KQ/Staff How they handle arguments in the group Ateez Group Dynamics Ateez (Green/Yellow &Red Flags) In relationships Who is most likely to be in a solid relationship soon Ateez Career Reading (January Update) Blackpink Blackpink Energy Reading (November) Blackpink thoughts on being an idol Jennie Perspective Reading

BTS Jin's Career Reading J-Hope's Career Reading Taehyung Career Reading RM's Career Reading Suga's Career Reading Jimin's Career Reading Jungkook's Career Reading Jungkook's Love Reading Jungkook Perspective Reading Taehyung Perspective Reading J-Hope Perspective Reading Seokjin's Perspective Reading BTS long-term vs short-term relationship preference BTS cheating tendencies BTS (Green/Yellow & Red Flags) in Relationships BTS' View on Marriage BTS Thoughts on Being an Idol Part 2

Enhypen How Possesive or Attached they are to Partners Enhypen's View on Marriage How loyal they are in relationships Will they love their future spouse Niki's Career Reading Sunghoon's Career Reading Jungwon's Career Reading Sunoo's Career Reading Jay's Career Reading Jake's Career Reading Heeseung's Career Reading Enhypen's Thoughts on Family Life Enhypen's thoughts on being an idol part 2 Who would seriously date a non-asian Sunoo Perspective Reading Niki Perspective Reading Jay Perspective Reading

(G)idle Soyeon Perspective Reading

ITZY ITZY Ideal Partner ITZY Love Energy (November)

IVE IVE Ideal Partner Wonyoung Perspective Reading IVE Personality Reading Le Sserafim Le Sserafim thoughts on being an idol New Jeans New Jeans Personality Reading New Jeans Group Dynamic Reading

Riize who would seriously date a foreigner/Non-Asian

Seventeen Minghao Perspective Reading Mingyu Perspective Reading Seventeen's Thoughts on Being an Idol Who would marry a non-asian Seventeen Career Reading (November) Seventeen's View on Marriage Cheating tendencies Seventeen Love Reading (December)

SHINee Taemin Perspective Reading

Stray Kids Stray Kids Tea Sessions Stray Kids Check In (January Update) Stray Kids cheating tendencies Who would be the most mature and stable in relationships Stray Kids Love Reading (December) Stray Kids who would be controlling/aloof in relationships How each member handles arguments in group Stray Kids View on Marriage Stray Kids (Green/Yellow and Red Flags) in Relationships How would they reveal Marriage to Public Felix Perspective Reading

Twice Who would be willing to Marry a Non-Asian

Treasure Treasure's Love Energy (December)

TXT Hueningkai's Career Reading Hueningkai's Love Reading Beomgyu's Career Reading Beomgyu's Love Reading Yeonjun's Career Reading Soobin's Career/Update Reading Yeonjun Perspective Reading Taehyun's Career Reading Hueningkai Perspective Reading How loyal would they be in a relationship TXT's thoughts on being an idol Part 2

[softaestluv]

✦.─Information─.✦

-`Introduction´-

Hello, I go by Cherri! You can also just call me softaestluv if you want. I am 24 and use she/her pronouns. I write about cod and the tf141 ensemble!

My account is 18+ and contains nsfw/smut content. MDNI.

-`Basics´-

This account is linked to my art account, so I follow/like from @cherrisartsu! Chances are I already follow you back, just under that user!

This is just for fun! I am by no means trying to be an author; I know there are grammatical errors and what not. This is my first year writing fics, so I am still learning as I go.

I try to tag and use content warnings when I need to; however, if you notice I did not tag something that you think should be, please let me know!

-`Guidelines´-

Feel free to submit an ask or message me! I would love to be your friend. However, I may take some time to respond, I’m really bad at texting! Please do not message me if you are a minor.

I am open to requests, but keep in mind that I do prioritize my fics! I will eventually get to your request, please give me time. I am an adult with a full time job and do not always have free time to write. I also just write slow lol!

I am still figuring out requests, so I will add more in the future, but I will not write:

Noncon

Heavy abuse

Gore

Majority of what I write is fluff & smut. Light angst at the most. I do not particularly like dark topics.

As much as I appreciate a compliment you’re trying to make by telling me you think I could write someone else’s concept better, please do not put down another writer in my asks/requests! If you want to read my take on the concept just explain it to me or give it to me as a prompt! There is no need to put down other writers. If you do I will not do your request.

I typically write fem!Reader & use she/her pronouns. However, I am open to using any other pronouns or dynamics upon request. If you submit a request and do not clarify what pronouns or reader you want me to use I will automatically assume to make it fem!reader.

-`Navigation´-

✦.─Masterlist─.✦

AO3

All of my fics are cross posted on ao3. I have several fics/one-shots on there that I will not be sharing on tumblr, so you can read a few extra stories from me there! Also, I typically post on ao3 before I post here if you want quicker updates!

Tags

I use specific tags to filter each post if you would rather search these on my account.

cherris fics — multiple chaptered fics

cherris drabbles — short oneshots or blurbs

cherri writes — every piece I’ve wrote!

cherris requests — any work someone has requested!

cherri yaps — me just yapping lol

You can also search up specific fics by their names, i.e ‘Breaking Bread’ and all works related to it will pop up!

[lightweaver-chosen-if]

DASHINGDON | FORUM | MAIN POST

I know it took awhile but… tadaah!

New 20k words of content just dropped, bringing the game to 50k! Each playthrough is around 22k~ words with mini paths to explore.

I tried to edit this as much as I could, but with the new amount of branches I'm starting to get cross-eyed after re-reading the game so many times. As always feedback is always welcome! I'm having some trouble in linking scenes together with code. So if there are parts where it seems weirdly formatted or abrupt, please let me know in the forums.

IMPORTANT:

Please use a new save! A lot has changed since the last update so it's most likely broken. The game passed both the quick and random test, so if you encounter any errors please make sure you didn't use an old save before reporting game breaking bugs.

What's New:

Continue the tour with A and L!

Learn about future events

Officially become a Launwyce Academy student

MC lore ;)

Meet and interact with your potential pet 🐶😺

Meet and interact with J

What's Edited:

Prologue

World lore

More physical banter variations for A and L when they have different genders

Hope everyone enjoys the update! :D

PS: Ignore the main re-post, just wanted to transfer the main post to this account.

PPS: omg I just realized it's April 1 - this is not an April fools joke !!!

[cosmicalbot]

NEW DIRECTIVE [ ULTRAKILL AU ]

GOD IS GONE. ICHOR IS FUEL. HELL IS HOME. >> NEW DIRECTIVE: EXPLORE HELL.

Hello again folks !! It's me, Kas Cosmicalbot, here to make a new and improved guide to my ULTRAKILL AU: New Directive !!

SUMMARY: Despite V1's rampage, Hell has remained stable, letting husks, demons, and machines to thrive in a new ecosystem. Gabriel doesn't die upon the loss of the Light, and grants V1 life by providing it his blood. With no reason to fight to live, V1 uses this opportunity to explore Hell, learn about anything it desires, and spend its free time doing whatever the hell (hah) it wants.

READ THE AO3 SERIES HERE :D

New Directive is made up of a bunch of separate fics and you don't have to read all of them !! You can see all of my posts about it under #new directive au and the fic links are under #new directive fic

More details under the cut ;) I will be updating these as I think of more btw !!!!

MAJOR DETAILS

Hell doesn't collapse. Because Hell is essentially a living being, it's able to use its energy to reanimate the dead bodies of husks and create more demons from the remnants of the destroyed ones. The exist in a a smaller quantity now, but enough to keep an stable ecosystem alive.

Gabriel doesn't die after being stripped of God's Light. After he kills the Council, he throws himself back into Hell to die. But the same energy that Hell uses to reanimate its denizens fills the void left by the Light and Gabriel becomes a fallen angel. He still retains most of his divine traits, perhaps a blessing from the source of his new lifeforce.

V1 gets fuel from Gabriel in exchange for sparring with him. Angelic blood is a lot more potent than standard human blood (it has a bit of godly ichor in it) and tends to last V1 a lot longer since it takes longer to "burn" through. And because Gabriel needs a new purpose now that he's fallen, he asks that V1 spars with him so he can keep his skills sharp (and feel like he's useful in some way).

The surviving machines have built their own little communities in the upper layers. They exist mostly in Limbo and Lust, but can be sparsely found in the lower ones. These communities are fairly small, usually only about 5-7 units in a group. They work together to collect fuel, repair some of the more intact machine bodies, and keep each other safe in their new lives.

MINOR DETAILS that i enjoy a lot

Takes place after Violence and is written pre Fraud (duh)

V1 and V2 are siblings bc I said so (sorry v4v fans)

Angels can change their form at will because they're made of light

Terminals can basically create/manifest any item that a machine might ask from them

V1's wings are made of hard light, protected by a layer of resin, and with a mesh of microscopic sensors that let it store weapons and other items

FUTURE PLANS

Minos and Sisyphus will be included (minophus real)

I plan to bring V2 back bc this is a Happy(ish) AU

And Mirage also (mv2 real)

My OCs will be included eventually bc I love them and need to share them with the world

okay that's all for now go read new directive

[mwahmwahh]

hey y'all:)

I came back with some updates on my post about a synastry between me and someone. Here's the link to the post if you havent seen it :

note: it's been like 6-7 months I believe ever since I posted it. Here are my observations so far.

12th house synastry

I've heard countless scaryyy things about this placement, and yes, it is painful. In my experience, it feels deeply karmic.

When we first met i felt this kind of familiarity in a way, aomething he did confess too just after a few days of meeting. Even after months we would sometimes talk about how our connection just seems "strange" but now in a bad way. It was like we just clicked and understood each other. On the first date he even told me a childhood trauma without realising it and I was like "wait how many people know about this?" and that's when he realised and said "oh very few..". As time went by it was like he was getting scared of the connection, then was getting scared of losing it and would do the most to keep in contact.

In my case, his Moon, Venus, and Mars fall in my 12th house, and everything about our connection has been so confusing. There was mutual appreciation and love, but for now, it just couldn't come to fruition. Why? Because he has to work through his own blockages and limiting beliefs to grow into a better version of himself (since the 12th house represents our subconscious, hidden fears/things from us in general, and in combination with the 7th house synastry that we had, which I will also talk about it later on on this blog, it's the perfect description of "mirroring each other". Keep in mind I am the one whose personal planets (Sun,Venus,Moon,Mercury) fell in his 7th house, meaning I would be the one holding that mirror)

He pursued me relentlessly—there wasn’t a single week in months where he didn’t reach out. He would call me even during emotional moments (a clear influence of his Moon), and we would comfort each other. But from my perspective, his feelings always felt somewhat hidden from me, even though he showed interest and pursued me (Mars energy). Like he was very obvious, but when i would ask why he would do certain things he would try hidding it or the next day would do something that would leave me confused and questioning idk it was like he didnt want to be seen completely? Also speaking of his mars in my 12th house, it's like he was scared to not be perceived as "successful" or "manly" enough, would be to proud to show vulnerability even tho it comes so natural for him to do so with me? (moon and Venus placement again). It’s like he never fully acknowledged the truth about our situation—not external factors, but the emotions and love (Venus) between us. Or he did admit it but for some reason he hides it.

This placement is painful, yes, but I believe it holds immense potential for growth for both individuals if they are willing to work on themselves and become their desired self if they arent scared of their own potential. These are necessary lessons for personal growth and, potentially, for a stronger connection in the future. I say this because he many times admitted his mistakes, and he did say he is going to work on those bad parts of himself (honestly when I received that message I was really happy, because he does hold a lot of potential to be a good partner [7th house placement] but its like I knew I couldn't get to excited yet as it will take time and a lot of patience. And note : I do not plan on waiting for him. He can go focus on himself, I will do my own thing, and if this was ever meant to happen, it will happen eventually but again these placements made me reallyyy tired and took a lot of my energy as I was always left in doubt. I do like him ngl and I do hope things get better, but until then I tried my best and he knowsss he could've been so much better. Again since it is with no doubt (I do tarot and my friends too so I've confirmed this through tarot as well), he will eventually get his karma (I do believe the 12th house in a way is about karma and it also represents spirituality) will realise everything bad happening in his life is linked to every poor decision made. If he was a better man and showed more interest instead of being scared to do so, I would've stayed but since he didn't, I left (in silence too cuz I tried to explain myself many times and LADIES keep in mind a man reacts to actions, not words. you can send that ogre paragraph after paragraph, he will not change until you leave or something else happens. in my case after a fight we had I just unfollowed him and took him from my followers as well, now we wait for him to notice since I did it not long ago 🙂‍↕️)

Moving onnnn,,, (sorry y'all I'm a gemini STELLIUM I can just talk and write for hours no problemo:))) )

In my case, I’ve experienced several serious, long-term relationships, while he has struggled with relationships that failed, leaving him reluctant to pursue anything serious. I truly believe we were meant to meet—not in a soulmate way, but in a karmic sense. The pain he unconsciously causes me feels like a mirror of the unresolved pain he carries, giving him an opportunity to heal and grow. Through this, I hope we can both learn from and transform through the connection.

7th house synastry:

My sun, moon, mercury, and Venus fall in his 7th house, as mentioned before. I've heard people say how the planet person feels it more than the house person but in this case I disagree. while I do see a lot of potential for this guy to be a good partner, he struggles to let me go because he feels the same way, but bcs of his planets in my 12th house, makes it confusing for him to see how he can pursue me or have me, makes his feelings clouded bcs of unresolved issues but through it all he sometimes has this lighting bulb when he wants to make things right, fix everything and meet. I do believe the influence of this house does balance a lot of aspects from the 12th house. The connection was really dreamy, since we both saw the potential to be together, we connected on many levels and had a lot in common but also a lot of difencences that ironically enough made us more attractive to one another. It's like I reflect something hopeful for him, because many times I did encourage him on a lot of things and given him support when, with his own words, doesn't even recieve this much support from family or friends. We had many deep conversations, not just about our situation, that helped him but I do believe it does help him more than it does to me. More on this house, my moon in his 7th house again explains just how natural it came for him to tell me the "unhidden" things, my sun there was lovely tbh, bcs I did feel the admiration he had for me and he would also feel more "manly" or just better when he was around me. He would always speak highly of me, would do romantic gestures like cook for me, even showing me parts of his life that were more private like his music, etc. I did feel also that he would try to copy me but not in a bad way more in a "idk what you actually like so I will just study you and show interest in the things that you like". But like guys cmon if you just like someone, go for it don't be like this man bcs that fear you have will just ruin it.

8th house synastry

Mentioning also the 8th house synastry real quick (my mars and saturn in his 8th house), yes there was a lot of attraction and sexual attraction, a lot of admiration etc but I feel like it's very obsessive from his pov. It's like he wants to be together with me but doesn't know how to and he's ego is too high (for now) to admit it until it's too late. And when he will finally realise I'm not there waiting for him to change anymore is when finally that mars placement gets activated, but in a very pursuing way and idk how it will go but mark my words bcs I will update you guys again :). What was scary was his saturn in my 2nd house. I think if I didn't have spent so many years working on myself, on my confidence and independence, I feel like this connection would've had me being the "hero" and just help him in all areas of his life while I would've become more restricted, more affect by the problems of the relationship than him. Because going more personally, yes he had a lot going on in his life, yes he knows he hasn't been the best man and did say he wants and will fix those negative parts of himself, but there is no excuse to "play" with someone's time and energy. The main problme was his lack of awarness and inmaturity, his fear. This situation was really tiring, again, and I think it is for the both of us because yes we can confront each other in a healthy way but it gets to a point it becomes really frustrating : for me not seeing process and eventually losing more interest/patience for this, and for him because he wants to change but doesn't know how to. and I tried helping him but I do not wanna keep saving people who can't be saved, especially a man HE CAN HELP HIMSELF!!!!🤩

I feel like this post was very long so sorry in advance!!! If you guys want, I can make a part 2 or if you have any questions please leave a comment, I will reply to you :) I would also appreciate if you guys have had any experience with these synastry placements, do tell cuz I'm really curious 🥸☝️

[aquamarine-oceanfront]

AJ DiSpirito, a composer who's scored or contributed music to many of Glitch Productions' shows (most recently Murder Drones), has run into an issue regarding his work's availability. On YouTube, direct links to the official, automatically-generated uploads for each song (different from the videos AJ himself posted, which are one per album) will lead to this error:

What's worse is that this is not confined to a single website or composer - it appears to have affected nearly every single streaming platform that previously hosted his work, as well as other Glitch soundtracks:

I did some investigating myself, and I can say two things with utmost certainty. The first is that, as he says in the above tweet, The Amazing Digital Circus's soundtracks were both pulled from YouTube in the same manner as his work on Murder Drones:

The second is that every single Glitch-related release on Qobuz - including their other shows, Meta Runner, Sunset Paradise, and SMG4 - has been delisted.

(The reason I highlight Qobuz specifically was simply because I had been meaning to buy Murder Drones' soundtrack there in the future, since it is the only place I know of where it can be purchased instead of just streamed.)

Finally, as mentioned at the very start of this post, this is likely tied to what appears to be a copyright troll reuploading DiSpirito's music for Glitch on YouTube and Amazon Music (among other places). "Urza's Destiny Beats" uses different names and (AI-generated) artwork for their uploads, but the actual music is undeniably stolen. Just a few examples:

"Festering Wound" is actually "Eternal Dream"

"Barrin, Master Wizard" is actually "The Knife Dance"

"Trumpet Blast" is actually "Solver Uzi"

In short, this is a pretty open and shut case. Considering both that and the many different artists who've been impacted, I'm hoping DistroKid (and/or any other relevant authorities) correct the problem soon - though I haven't heard great things about their track record for responsiveness.

Update #1: All Glitch music has been delisted from Spotify. Gooseworx (creator and co-composer of TADC) and the Lerdwichagul brothers (co-founders and heads of Glitch itself) are aware of the situation.

Update #2 (June 5th, 2024): The affected music is beginning to reappear! It's back up on YouTube and Apple Music, with other services likely to follow.

[autismprotocol]

TMAG Theory Board Update (EP 11-12)

Hi guys sorry about the late posting I've just started a new quarter of college and its been pretty hectic. also got into my school design BFA program so pretty stoked about that! Anyways lets get into the Episode Breakdowns because even though not a lot of lore related things happened I still have a lot to talk about

For the breakdown I'll separate each by episode in sequential order

What Happened in Episode 11: Marked

Celias Rude Awakening- we jump right into the weirdness straight away with Celia waking up on the side of the interstate. she indicates that this is not a weird occurrence and ends the scene by telling someone named Jack that she's "on her way." If you remember episode 8 after Celia and Sam talk to Gerry and Gertrude, she mentions stuff about wanting help with her own mystery. When Sam asks about it she says she's looking into Time travel, other dimentions and teleportation. Many people have theorized that maybe Celia is just a super heavy sleepwalker, but I think the she teleports random places out of nowhere. This could be a side effect of her reality hopping if this Celia is originally from The archives universe.

As for the identity of Jack I'm not quite sure about that yet. I cross referenced the name Jack with past episodes of TMA. The only thing that came up was Jack Barnabas from the statement about dating Agnes Montague (aka an avatar of the desolation and Jesus-like figure for the cult of the lightless flame) So Unless Celia is secretly Agnes of Agnes reincarnated , I can't find any way to link Barnabas to Celia. (if anyone has a theory feel free to send it my way.)

Sam Lore- this one is pretty minor story-wise but I thought it was interesting. Before the statement for the episode is presented we get some classic Sam and Alice Banter ™ most of it is pretty lighthearted but I noticed Sam mention something that could indicate he might be an amputee.

These could not mean anything and I find it weird that it hasn't been mentioned until now but thought it was kind of cool and I will probably be drawing sam with a prothetic leg in the future cause I really like this head-canon. It also begs to question if he is missing a leg. it might have anything to do with his past as a Magnus institute test subject but then again could just be a fun character detail added by Jonny and/or Alex .

The Statement- Getting into the statement we get another Ink5oul appearance. Also possible Ink5oul identifying as she/they. (and lets be honest being a fear avatar is pretty non binary core). I found this Episode gave me a feeling of a hybrid between the Vast, Buried and the Flesh some people are theorizing that is might be a new entity called the Deep but I think that the fear of the ocean could easily apply to the vast or buried. Not much to say about this story though pretty standard Magnus horror that also gave us a hint to what Ink5oul's goal could be/which entity they serve.

Post Bonzo- Gwen has a debrief with Lena after her first Externals Liason assignment and her meeting with Mr. Bonzo. Undoubtedly Gwen is still pretty shaken from her encounter, even arriving late to work due to sleeplessness. Gwen is able to ask Lena a few questions mainly she wanted to know who's name was written on the letter given to Bonzo

Lena is largely unhelpful but tells Gwen she should have worked it out by now and if not to pay close attention to the case load for the next couple of days. before the latest episode my guess was Klaus because that is the only person mentioned so far that the OIAR intends to kill. but more on that later

Marked- Now were getting to my favorite thing about this episode. This episode title can have two meanings. The first is the more literal interpretation. Tattoos are marking of the body and the case this episode was all about tattoos so easily a good name would be marked. But I believe this is a red herring meant to misguide listeners who have not consumed all 200 episodes of TMA because if you know the world of Magnus Archives the term Marked takes on a entirely different meaning.

In TMA the term marked is used to indicate that somebody has been influenced by one or more or the fears and are one their way to becoming an Avatar. I think this could be a coded way to tell the audience someone in the OIAR has been marked. I have two potential candidates

Alice Dyer- Alice has been having dreams about the Institute after her and Sam's adventure into the ruins. also she mentions feeling like someone's watching her (common to people influenced or fed upon by the Ceaseless Watcher/The Eye) My guess if she is marked it would be by the Eye.

Gwendolyn Bouchard: Probably the most likely culprit. The main way an entitly tends to mark people is through encounters with other avatars. Gwen has just had an encounter with Mr Bonzo last episode who I strongly believe must be an avatar of some sort.

What Happened in Episode 12: Getting Off

Aww Sam!!- Sam asked Celia out and it was adorably awkward. not much to say I just loved this interaction and I'm longing for a new Magnus brand office romance hopefully is wont be an agonizing slowburn that ends tragically like a certain pair of morons from Archives (I love you Jon and Martin but Jesus christ)

It's Bonzo time bitches!!- Probably one of the most gruesome Magnus statement I've ever listened to (good work Alex) Mr Bonzo completely annihilated some poor dude at his bachelor party. Based on the date of the Incident the I can confidently say that whoever Baz (the groom) was he was our mystery person the OIAR sent Mr Bonzo to get rid of. Along with some of the bloodiest imagery we learned a few things about Bonzo. The most interesting detail is that Bonzo has to be summoned by playing his theme song I think the CD of his theme song acts somewhat like the tapes did in TMA by materialising out of nowhere. Also fun fact you know that torn seam that is right down Bonzo's middle? that is actually is his mouth lined with rows sharp teeth so I guess I know that now (so fun) Moral of the story dont f*ck with Mr. Bonzo

Alice knows something: Theres been this recurring audio glitch throughout TMAGP thatnks to a few extremly observent fans we have started to relize that these glitches are not at all random and are actually letting the audience know when a character is lying (i actually reposted somones deepdive into all the istances of this glitch so far if you guys are intrested in knowing more) why i bring this up now is becuase since we know when any charater is lying we also know when they are being truthful if there is no glitch when they say somthing and at the end of this episode this interaction occurs

Alice goes ahead and makes a joke about this to annoy Gwen but the fact theres no audio glitch when she says "I know" means she does actually know who is behind the OIAR and is activly refusing to share it with Gwen or the others. What do you know Alice!?

and that's about it im already loving these next batch of episodes and am so excited to learn more (ERROR has to show up somtime )

thanks to everyone who resonded the poll on the last update I will continue to include drawings into the breakdown even if it takes me a little bit of time to post. anyways I wrote this all in one sitting and I'm about ready to pass out so thanks again and the ask box and comments are always open for discussion and theory crafting.

-Echo

[bonefall]

Lil' Update

I got about 50 people who reached out to be involved as guest artists, and narrowed that down to 42! That's a lot of people!

I'd like to try to involve almost everyone at least once, taking into account for everyone's strengths, interests, and skill level. So here's the agenda I've got planned;

FIRST, the mostly-finished posts in my drafts are getting revamped, finished, and assigned. I'm currently working with the artists who've claimed Instruments and StarClan 102 to get those ready, and then moving on to Parasites, Welcome to ShadowClan, and Flax Processing, and a couple others. I've got an artist in mind for each-- though it's possible that plans might change based on availability.

AFTER THAT, I'm going to tackle some of the most important and requested guides, as well as the topics in my drafts that need more massive re-writes. Boar Hunting, Winter Preparations, How Scent Works, etc. I don't have artists set for these yet, so if you're on my list, I will be approaching folks randomly once there's a presentable draft ready to show.

All the while, I am still subject to the whims of Whatever Thing I Want To Write About At The Time. SO if you're on my list, I might leap at you at some point to offer you something relevant to the examples and interests you shared with me.

So if you're someone who reached out to me and you suddenly get an interest in a new topic, or want an excuse to practice a specific subject, or I mention something offhandedly while answering an ask that you find interesting, feel free to shoot me another DM so I can add it to my notes.

LASTLY; This remains open. If you want to hop into my list at some point, the opportunity will remain available for the foreseeable future.

(Being a "guest artist" isn't a limited slots sort of thing-- and it's also NOT a "one and done" deal where everyone only gets one slot. It's more like giving me your info so that I know you'd like to be involved at some point. Here is a link back to the original details.)

[suzuran777]

Ooe part 1 Spoiler Review: Literature & Theories

Ever since posting my spoiler-free review, I've received some questions about my theories for part 2, so in this review I will be talking about that! That also means that this review will discuss topics that many would consider a spoiler, so make sure to play part 1 first. According to the latest update from the official account, part 2 will be released somewhere early next year, therefore there's still plenty of time to play part 1! If you're waiting to play the game in English, it has been confirmed that they intend to release it in other languages, though details about this are still unknown.

Ever since playing Hashihime, I've become really interested in all of the novels referenced in Adelta's games, and I love analyzing the similarities between them. I'm not sure how interesting this is to others, but I tried to add some short summaries of what each novel that's (possibly) referenced in the game is about. Of course these are just theories and we don't have an official list or anything yet. I might update this in the future when part 2 is released, though the official website mentions that it's only allowed to post part 1 spoilers, so I will see how much I can add to this later.

When this game was announced, it was mentioned that all 9 main characters are named after train stations on the Yurikamome line in Tokyo (the train line most people take if you go to events like Comiket). Other names Oosaki, Shinagawa and Shinkiba are train stations on the Rinkai line, which was not officially confirmed, but very easy to find because both train lines are located in the same area. So far the names of all of the side characters in the game also followed this pattern, so there's not much I can add to this. However, their first names is where things start getting a bit more interesting. When the first names of Funeno and Shiodome were released, fans immediately recognized that their names were references to characters in existing novels. Then while playing part 1, this theory proved to be correct, as some of the other first names could also be linked to existing literature. I created this list while playing the game, but I've seen similar theories on social media such as Twitter (or well, X now) and Weibo too, therefore I think a lot of these could be correct. Right now we don't know the first names of Oosaki and Hinode, so I will be leaving these out. I will also include the Japanese titles of these works to make it a bit easier to look them up yourself. Of course I don't always remember every detail that happened in these novels, and some I only read very recently, so please correct me if anything is wrong! I'm always happy to learn more.

Ariake Shoutarou (有明 勝太郎) Ariake's first name "Shoutarou" is most likely a reference to Junichiro Tanizaki's "Tojo" (途上). The protagonist is actually called "Katsutarou", which is another way of reading the kanji used to write Ariake's first name. This character has an ex-wife and a current wife, whose names are Fudeko and Kumako. This is only briefly mentioned at the end of Ariake's route, but his wives have the same names. In this novel, Katsutarou tries to kill his first wife Fudeko by purposely exposing her to dangerous situations that negatively impact her health, but he won't directly harm her to make her death look like an accident. The motive and the way he tries to kill her is different than what happens in Ooe, but I think it's definitely the inspiration behind this route. Another connection to Junichiro Tanizaki's works is the name of Ariake’s sister, who's called Naomi (奈緒美) which is a name that appears in “Chijin no Ai” (痴人の愛). Around this time the concept of “Naomiism” was born, which was used to describe a free-spirited devilish, beautiful girl. Sometimes it looks like this term was also used for girls who manipulate men, but it wasn't always used in a negative context. I'm curious if this concept was also used to create Ariake's character, as in of the official blog posts he's described as a "male femme fatale". I'm not sure if this is plot-related or not, but Ariake's ending song also has an audio clip from the play "Cyrano de Bergerac", which doesn't exactly have a happy ending either and both of the characters lose their lives.

Shimbashi Mei (新橋 冥) When I looked for novels which focused on a character called "Mei", I couldn't find much initially, until I realized the kanji used to write his name is also the first kanji in the Japanese word for Pluto (冥王星), which is also the name of the theater company he works for. In his ending, Shinagawa even tells Oosaki that Shimbashi is Pluto, so it might also be his pseudonym. Pluto is also the cat that appears in Edgar Allan Poe's "The Black Cat" and even though the story isn't identical to what happened in his past, there are similar elements. For example, the cat in this story Pluto only has one eye, and while Shimbashi does have another eye, he usually hides it with an eyepatch. The unnamed protagonist also ends up killing the cat by hanging it, which is similar to how Shimbashi's brother used to kill animals. Later in the story, the protagonist adopts another cat who resembles Pluto, but because the new cat keeps reminding him of how he killed Pluto, he eventually loses his sanity and tries to kill the new cat as well, but ends up killing his own wife instead who tried to protect the cat. Despite the protagonist trying to hide her body, the police eventually finds her because the cat was trapped in the same wall where the protagonist tried to hide her body, and the sound of the animal scratching the wall gained their attention. Even though the story is a bit different, Shimbashi also got his revenge by murdering his brother, which he doesn't seem to regret much. Shimbashi's ending song is called ルドン (rudon) which is how you would write the name of French painter Odilon Redon in Japanese. The song also mentions his mentor Armand Clavaud, who was a botanist. Clavaud taught Redon many things about flowers, but also introduced him to Buddhism, which shows in Redon's later paintings too. The flowers are an important element in this route as Shimbashi's the person who was leaving flowers on the grave of Oosaki's grandmother, so maybe all of that is also intentional.

Aomi Kaede (青海 楓) This is not necessarily about the name Kaede, but about Takuichi (卓一), Aomi's father who he's impersonating on the island. Takuichi is also the name of the protagonist of Koga Saburo's "Aofuku no Otoko" (青服の男) and his cousin is called Shinzo, who shares the same name as the student who committed suicide in the game, Shinonome Shinzo. In the novel the two of them schedule a meet-up to discuss money Takuichi wanted to borrow, but when he doesn't show up to the meeting, Shinzo later confronts him. In the middle of the confrontation however, Shinzo suffers from a heart attack and passes away. In Ooe their relationship is a bit different, as Takuichi and Shinzo are teacher and student, and Aomi's father passed away shortly after receiving the invitation letter. In the novel Takuichi is alive and impersonates Shinzo in order to get his own inheritance money, though the theme of impersonation is relevant in Ooe too as Aomi pretends to be his father. There's nobody called Kaede in this story, but in the game Aomi mentions his father called him Kaede because he thought his hands resembled a frog's webbed feet (kaeru = frog) so currently I'm unsure if there's any further connections. Aomi's ending song is called Taichourou (対潮楼) which is actually the name of a temple in Fukuyama, a city located in Hiroshima prefecture. I'm not sure if there's any specific reason for this, but it's not too far away from Ookunoshima (also known as bunny island because of its many rabbits), which is one of the locations that was used as inspiration for some of the background art in-game.

Funeno Kureichirou (船野呉一郎) Hashihime fans might recognize this one as Kureichirou is also the name of one of the most important characters in Yumeno Kyuusaku's "Dogra Magra". Dogra Magra is not one of the easiest stories to understand, as the protagonist's memory is hazy and you never know if the researchers are telling him the truth either, but generally we know that Kureichirou seems to have murdered his cousin (who was also his fiancé). Funeno's crime is revealed at the end of the trial version of Ooe and he killed his sister. So far we haven't really seen much of Funeno in part 1 because he immediately acts strange when he sees Oosaki, probably because he has Daiba's letter and Oosaki introduced himself as "Daiba", so it's a bit hard to analyze his character yet or compare him to Dogra Magra's Kureichirou in my opinion.

Shiodome Michio (汐留 道雄) Just like Funeno, Shiodome's first name was also revealed a long time before the trial version and part 1 of Ooe were released. It references Edogawa Ranpo's "Kotou no Oni" (孤島の鬼) which is not really a secret as it's one of the novels that was mentioned in one of the first blog posts about Ooe and its inspirations. Michio is one of the main characters, who's a gay man who falls in love with the main character Minoura. So far their personalities do not seem that similar, but Kotou no Oni's Michio is adopted by a man called Jogoro, which is also the first name of Shiodome's professor (Tsukishima Jogoro).

Takeshiba Yozo (竹芝 葉蔵) This is one of the new names we learned about in part 1, but since Yozo isn't the most common name ever it's probably referencing Dazai Osamu's "No Longer Human/Ningen Shikkaku” (人間失格). Yozo (or ''Youzou'', it's hard to keep romanization consistent...) is the name of the protagonist. He's a troubled individual who can't relate to other human beings and doesn't understand them. At first he tries to hide these emotions by playing the clown so people laugh at him, but eventually he turns to alcohol and drugs. Takeshiba is a magician who quickly tries to change the topic when things get serious, which matches the theme of playing the clown, but we also know he gets nervous fast and he's also the character who committed some of the most brutal murders in the game so far. I think the story won't be exactly the same, but he definitely seems to share certain personality traits with the main character. He's accused of murdering his family by setting their family home on fire, though in the first part of the game he makes it seem like someone else did it, or if it was some kind of accident.

Shijoumae Yoshiichirou (市場前 義一郎) Maybe a bit of a wild guess because we don't really know the names of side characters that are related to Shijoumae's story yet, but his first name could be a reference to Akutagawa Ryunosuke's "Kaika no Satsujin" (開化の殺人). This is a rather strange short story that focuses on a number of suicide notes, written by a doctor who's called Kitabatake Yoshiichirou. He's often described as a man with a rather 'western' appearance because of his beard/moustache, which matches Shijoumae's character design. He was in love with his cousin Akiko (which I guess was not uncommon during this time period) and wanted to marry her, but she married another man called Mitsumura. In the book, Kitabatake was incredibly jealous of him and poisoned him. However, even after this first murder, his cousin started getting close to another man called Honda, who Yoshiichiro was also jealous of. Initially, he planned to poison him too, but in the end he decided against this and took his own life instead. We know that Shijoumae has a wife, but as we've seen in these previous novel references, the connections between the characters in the original novels often aren't identical to what happens in Ooe's story, which also makes it hard to predict what will happen in this route.

Toyosu Rouren (豊洲 浪蓮) I was a bit confused when I heard the pronunciation of his name in-game, as it sounded a bit unusual to me, though many fans so far have pointed out that the name sounds similar to ''Lawrence/ローレンス'' who's the antagonist in Agatha Christie's "And Then There Were None" which is the novel that gets mentioned in-game too. In the novel Lawrence fakes his own death, which reminds me of the boat scene in Ariake's route in which Toyosu drowned, but the whole scene seemed rather sudden to me. For example, he tries to convince the others that nobody else should join him, and the food at the inn also disappeared around this time. After finishing Aomi's route, we know he's lying about his real identity too because no matter what temple they visit, there's no monk with his name, and other characters also suspect him of being the client. In the common route he's also the character who the client supposedly sent to the island to hold the ceremony on their behalf, if I remember correctly.

Daiba Shizuma (台場 静馬) Another name we've known for a long time is Daiba's first name Shizuma, which is a reference to Yokomizo Seishi's "The Inugami Family/Inugami-ke no Ichizoku" (犬神家の一族). This is another story about impersonation which fits the main theme of Oosaki pretending to be Daiba on the island. There are actually multiple characters in this novel who share the same names as some of the Ooe characters, such as Sukekiyo (佐清) the name of Daiba’s brother who passed away in the boat accident, and Sahei (佐兵衛), Daiba's father Oosaki meets in the common route. The connections between characters in this story get very complicated, but Sahei is the head of the Inugami family who has an illegitimate son called Shizuma, who went missing. He also has a grandson called Sukekiyo, who was disfigured on the battlefield. Similar to Ooe, the story starts with Sahei's death, though in the novel he leaves a suicide note and in Ooe he seems to die rather suddenly after talking to Oosaki (if he wasn't dead already, that whole scene is strange…). In the novel, it's revealed that Sukekiyo actually passed away some time ago and Shizuma has been pretending to be him. There are also some other shared elements, such as the Shizuma in the novel trying to take revenge for what happened to his mother, and in the game Daiba takes his mother's last name "Hama", and expresses that he doesn't like the Daiba family.

Side characters I haven't looked much into the side characters, but I assume their first names are also references to something. The names of Shinkiba and Shinagawa (Jinza 甚三 and Zakuro 柘榴 ) could be referring to some of the side characters from some of Edogawa Ranpo's works, as there's a short story called ''Zakuro'' (石榴) and there's also a "Jinza" in the novel Ghost Tower (幽霊塔), but I can't exactly find any connections between them and the Ooe characters. For Oosaki I'm guessing his name could also be something related to the Inugami Family too because it is a bit suspicious that he looks almost identical to Daiba, I think they have to be related to each other in some way.

Other literature references In a previous blog post I wrote in 2022, I mentioned that when Ooe was announced, one of the official blog posts also mentioned works that inspired them to create Ooe. I will include those in this blog post again as the previous one is a bit outdated now.

Of course the main inspiration is Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, as it follows a similar closed-circle murder mystery story on an island. In Ariake's first ending, Oosaki even compares some of the characters in the novel to characters in the game, calling himself Vera for example who murdered for love. Another important connection is that the owner of the island in this novel calls themselves "U.N. Owen", a fake name which basically just stands for ''unknown''. This of course sounds very similar to "Ooe" and the game's official alias is also "Owen" according to the official website. The actress who passed away is called "An Ooe", which also sounds a bit similar to "unknown".

Previously, I mentioned that Shiodome's first name Michio is a reference to Edogawa Ranpo's "Kotou no Oni", another novel that focuses on a murder mystery story, this time about the death of the protagonist's fiancé. As the title of the novel suggests (which translates to "Demon of the Lonely Isle") they also travel to an island, though this one is inhabited by people who all have some kind of deformity. Of course most of the characters in Ooe look pretty normal, but if you've played part 1 you've probably noticed how many characters either suffer from an illness or were born with some kind of physical abnormality, although sometimes it's not really severe. Ariake's has a thyroid disease (Grave's Disease according to his character profile in-game), Shimbashi has strabismus (misalignment of his eyes) and Aomi has webbed fingers which his father made fun of. If we look at the other characters, there is of course Hinode who won't talk and also seems to have difficulty walking, though the reason for this has not been explained yet in-detail. In the full body art, Shijoumae is also drawn with a cane, which might also be linked to something related to his health, but I'm not completely sure about some of the other characters yet.

The same blog post also mentions three incidents which happened in real life, but which all have novel adaptations as well, with the first one being the "Anatahan Incident", or also called the "Queen of Anatahan Incident" (アナタハンの女王事件). This incident focuses on a number of deaths that happened on Anatahan Island, located in the Pacific Ocean. The island became Japanese territory after the First World War and Japanese settlers began living on the island together with natives. Years later near the end of the Second World War, most locals fled after the American military called for Japan's surrender during the war. During this time, some refused to surrender and stayed on the island. Initially, the Japanese people who refused to leave the island were left alone, but things changed when a U.S. Boeing crashed into the island and guns were found inside of the wreckage. Afterwards, these guns became a symbol of power among men on the island, and some of them would kill each over the only woman on the island, Kazuko. After this, it was reported that more men died under "mysterious circumstances", and eventually Kazuko surrendered herself to the U.S. military, as she felt like she was the root of all the problems on the island. Writer Iwasaki Sakae also released a novel based on these incidents, which is just called "Anatahan".

The second incident mentioned is the "Hikarigoke Incident" (ひかりごけ事件), and translates to "Luminous Moss Incident", though the name comes from Takeda Taijun's short story which is based on this incident. The short story is actually just based on rumors rather than factual reports, so there are some differences. The real incident is rather graphic and took place in 1944 in Hokkaido. It was reported that after ending up in a shipwreck, the captain of the ship survived by eating the corpses of his own crew. The captain was later arrested on charges of corpse mutilation, corpse abandonment and murder. Even though he said he didn't kill them, he did admit eating them. This case stood out back then because even though cannibalism had undoubtedly happened before in Japanese history, it was the first time such a case was reported by the newspapers. If we want to link this to what happened in the game, there's of course Shiodome who was accused of corpse mutilation. He also took Funeno's head in the first route, and in this case the captain admitted that he ate the brains of one of the crew members (... as well as their genitalia, so do with that information what you want).

The final incident mentioned in this blog post was the "Mount Hakkoda Disaster" or "Mount Hakkoda Snow Disaster" (八甲田雪中行軍遭難事件) which happened in 1902 when a group of Japanese Imperial Army soldiers got lost in a blizzard on Hakkoda Mountain, located in Aomori. This incident is considered one of the most lethal disasters in history and 199 people lost their lives. After getting stuck in the blizzard, during the next days many soldiers would freeze to death, while others fell down the cliffs during their ascent. This incident also has a novel which translates to "Death Wanderings on Mt. Hakkoda" (八甲田山死の彷徨) by Nitta Jiro, which was also made into a movie "Hakkoda Mountain". Of course, Ooe's story is about an island and not a mountain, but I do understand the similarities about getting stuck somewhere and being unable to leave.

Final theories and thoughts Right now I am mostly curious about Daiba because I want to know why exactly he made Oosaki travel to the island. At the end of the game, you also unlock a teaser for part 2 which includes a preview of Daiba, so he has to be the final route right? There's of course some other things I'm curious about, like how many characters have the same blood type, share similar physical traits, and how many of them have family members who are originally from Ooejima, so I think there's definitely some shared past they have yet to discover. I've also been wondering why the side characters all have black eyes and the main characters have red eyes, as eye color was a pretty important theme in Hashihime and Uuultra C. Maybe it has something to do with their connections to Ooejima? I think they definitely have some shared past we don't know much about.

At some point BL game magazine Cool-B also published a so called "madness scale" which ranked the characters from 1 to 5 (with 5 being the worst) which could give us some hints about what these characters will be like in their own routes. Aomi and Toyosu are ranked 1, Shimbashi and Funeno 2, Hinode is the only one who's a 3, Takeshiba is 4, and Ariake, Shiodome and Shijoumae all got a 5. If Toyosu really is the mastermind then maybe he didn't ''technically'' kill anyone like Aomi, but I'm not sure if that's the real plot twist because maybe it would be too easy to guess. I also wonder how Takeshiba is a 4 and not a 5, because we know he committed most of the murders in the game so far, and they were pretty brutal. Oosaki and Daiba both aren't included in this list, so I can't say much about them.

Lastly, the letters you unlock in-game are also really interesting to me, I wonder if it was Ooe An who wrote some of these? One of the letters mentions a sister, a lake villa and a boat, so could it be that her sister married into the Daiba family? I think there will definitely be some kind of connection between the characters, though we know so little about her there's not much else I can think of right now. I'm really looking forward to part 2, and it's also interesting to read everyone else's theories about the game so far! I can't believe I've been writing about this game for about 3 years now and slowly we're finally learning more about the story and its characters.

Here's a list of my previous blog posts about Ooe! Though I haven't looked at these for some time now so some might be outdated... Old blog post with general information -> X Trial version review -> X Part 1 review -> X

[midasfm]

hi idols! admin olive here with some updates and an announcement about the changes we've been working on for the past little while. please like this post once read.

as we've been working on the necessary rewrites and edits to haute pink, phaze, girl code, and parts of midas music's history, we've run into some issues that have had the admin team considering if a restructuring of the roleplay would be beneficial to the group as a whole. additionally, as we've been working on these rewrites, some members of the admin team have had personal issues pop up that will, inevitably, impact their ability to admin full-time. however, each member of the admin team is dedicated to seeing the midasfm universe thrive, so we've been discussing a restructure of the roleplay over the past week. before anyone worries too much over what the restructure will look like and what it will mean for your muses, we'll outline the changes we're interested in making below. following the description of these changes, there will be a link to a google form. this google form is a survey on how you, as a mun, feel about the below changes and how you feel they'd impact your muse. no changes will be made without considering every member's opinion, and we'll do our absolute best to accommodate as many requests as possible. regardless, we are well-aware that a restructure isn't an ideal situation for anyone, but the other alternatives are that things continue as they are now (with backdated posts, slow admin response and update times, and potential mistakes being made) or we close entirely. these are options we do not wish to pursue, as mentioned above. i created the midasfm universe over a year ago, and the most important thing to me is seeing the roleplay and all your lovely muses thrive. before we move onto the changes we're considering making, i'll address what everyone's probably wondering right about now — what does this mean for threads activity? for now, activity may proceed as normal. however, there will be no admin updates (doltalk posts, schedule posts, claims updates, etc) and comebacks (solo and group) will be postponed for the time being. to accommodate for the lack of admin updates, we'll only be a bit more lenient with activity checks until the changes are confirmed. you may continue your current threads (event or regular threads), start new threads (as long as they are not based around future or postponed schedules), complete character development tasks, and continue responding to ask memes. the admin team may throw up an additional task or ask meme to help out with this temporary pause. when we have enough feedback to the below form and the changes are confirmed, we'll post an update regarding activity. some of the changes may require a pause in activity if they significantly impact a group and its members, so an update will go up as soon as we're able to confirm which direction we're going in. as far as reapplication goes, it won't be necessary for all muses, unless the changes directly impact your muse or their group. this will be something that will be addressed in our next update.. however, if someone did wish to revamp their muse or reapply due to the updated tiers, you are free to do so, but please message the admin team if that is something you'd like to do. if no one agrees to any of the following group changes, then we'll focus on the things that don't directly impact any of our current groups (with the exception of the changes being made to haute pink and girl code) and no pause in activity will be needed (aside from us taking the needed time to recruit a new admin, and implement the other changes mentioned). regardless, please be assured we will do our best to make these changes as non-obstructive as possible. the changes we are considering can be found below:

company soloists

moving forward, we will not be opening any further company soloist positions. truthfully, the current number of soloist positions is far beyond what we initially intended to have, but we expanded the amount as we had more interest than we anticipated and wanted to ensure we had enough room for everyone. so, going forward, we will not be opening any additional company soloist positions as we believe any further soloists would be too much for the admin team to properly manage.

to make the company soloist positions easier for the admin team to manage, as we do find it difficult to manage the current number of soloists. we want to offer soloist muns as much creative freedom as possible, but we must ensure that our guidelines are being followed and things are being done reasonably and realistically, which we currently find challenging. additionally, we do find it difficult to incorporate company soloists into schedule posts and events while keeping their image, branding, and our mun's future plans for them in mind. we've also found it difficult to keep up with the requests being made by our soloist muns. this is in no way the fault of our soloist muns, but it's become glaringly obvious to the admin team that we do need to make some changes to how the company soloists positions operate.

to combat these problems, we'll be preparing new forms and additional mechanics that will help ensure our company soloist muns are offered creative freedom, while also ensuring things are kept realistic and our guidelines are being followed. some of these mechanics are still a wip, but we'll being added a more "in-depth" soloist comeback form, a soloist schedule form (that can be submitted monthly and will give you a space to share any goals or wishlists for your muse), and an increased amount of open career opportunities aimed at soloist muses. we hope that, in addition to recruiting more members for our admin team, these mechanics will help make things smoother for both sides.

however, some of our soloist muns have reached out and shared their concerns about these positions. we've heard from them that they find planning their own monthly schedules difficult, and that they find plotting to be more difficult with company soloists. we hope that the above-mentioned solutions will help make these things easier, but we've decided to add additional groups and additional group-based soloist positions in the event that any of our current company soloists would like to switch from a company soloist position to a group-based soloist position. in no way will we forcing or asking anyone to make this switch, but if there is anyone who would prefer a little more guidance with monthly schedules, a more cohesive narrative to follow, or more existing connections, this may be a good solution for you. below, we'll outline the new groups we're thinking of adding, as well as additional soloist skeletons we may add to our existing groups.

if anyone does switch their company soloist to a group-based soloist, that company soloist position will be removed from our roster.

note: we will be lifting our "no more than one group-based soloist" rule, but we will not allow muns to apply for a second additional group-based soloist position until our company soloist muns make their decision. any additional group-based soloist positions being added will be tentatively reserved for our company soloist muns. any positions not taken by our company soloist muns can be applied for (by new applicants or existing members) following the restructure.

new groups

daybreak, a four-member boy group inspired by got7 and seventeen with an age range of '93 to '97, and yng, a six-member boy group inspired by riize with an age range of '99 to '02, are both finished and will be unveiled once the results of the form are in. if any of our company soloist muns wish to switch their muse to daybreak, daybreak will have four group-based soloist skeletons available and we'll work with you to map out your desired soloist skeleton. if none of our company soloist muns wish to switch their muse to daybreak, daybreak will have a mixture of soloist and actor skeletons to choose from.

marionette, our npc group from ninety9 creative, will be made a playable group of four members, aged '93 to '96. if any of our company soloist muns wish to switch their muse to marionette, we'll work with you to map out your desired soloist skeleton.

one additional girl group: a group inspired by nmixx and possibly aespa or a group inspired by rescene and illit. both options will be aged '00 to '02. as their debut will take place somewhere between 2023 to 2025, they will not have soloist skeletons available yet, but we did want to mention they will be coming to the collective.

sonix, as mentioned below.

HAUTE PINK

as mentioned on the main and to the haute pink muns, we do have to do a pretty major rewrite of haute pink since their current image is tailored to their previous sound. since haute pink's rewrite has turned out to be much more significant than anticipated, we'll be in contact with the muns to discuss potential changes to their skeletons, their solo releases, and the group's history as a whole. changes are almost complete, so we should be in touch over the next few days. however, we do suspect that haute pink muns will have to resubmit their applications / claims due to these rewrites.

PHAZE

with all the changes being made to midas music and their groups, things around phaze have gotten a little messy and we're not entirely happy with the inconsistencies that have popped up, so we're considering a rewrite of phaze. this rewrite would likely include a few changes to their discography, as well.

we're considering splitting phaze's discography between two groups: phaze will retain their group narrative and their level of success (with a few changes to their history and overall group image, but those changes will be minimal as we're only looking to correct the above-mentioned inconsistencies). however, we think splitting their discography between two groups would be beneficial for the roleplay as a whole. first, splitting their discography between two groups would make the most sense when considering midas music's sound and image and would be the best choice to protect the narrative we wish to pursue with the group. second, we think splitting the discography would aide us in offering more group-based soloists and a more diverse age range, as we've heard complaints from both those interested in portraying older and younger muses. splitting their discography into two would also allow us to explore their history on nu phase, as outlined in our idea below.

phaze's discography will look like this (subject to changes depending on your answers) and their age range will be adjusted to '93 - '96 or '97. the skeletons may be adjusted, but the majority will remain the same and any changes will be run by the affected muns.

the discography items that will be removed from phaze will go to a new boy group, sonix, with an age range of '98 to '00 and a debut in 2017 or 2018. sonix's lineup will consist of members of team b from nu phase. as mentioned above, these discography items are subject to changes depending on your answers. the narrative we'll explore with them is one of mistreatment and damage control: sonix is considered "second best" to phaze, as the "losing" team of nu phase, and the company treats them as such. they're often used to clean up phaze's messes, but are mistreated and mismanaged by the company. despite midas music's treatment of them, they're popular and have a passionate fandom behind them, but still struggle to be seen by some as anything but a second phaze. sonix will be five members, with 2/5 having made a solo debut.

however, if all phaze muns are okay with the changes to their discography, we may shelve sonix for now and debut them at a later date.

ANGELIX

as we are planning to turn marionette into a playable group, we will be removing cosmic by red velvet from angelix's discography and replaced with another song from oh my girl, wjsn, or ive. angelix will keep feel my rhythm, however.

if any of our company soloist muns wish to switch their muse to angelix, we will edit the open and existing skeletons to include an additional soloist spot and may consider adding an additional member to angelix entirely, if the demand calls for it.

REMEDY

remedy may experience some changes to their timeline and history as a result of marionette's addition. these changes should be minimal and we'll do our best to ensure these changes do not impact your muses in any major way. however, there will be no changes made to their discography.

remedy has room for one additional member, so if any of our company soloist muns wish to switch their muse to remedy, we may add an additional slot to remedy.

however, with the addition of a seventh member, we may look at making adjustments to remedy's skeletons. truthfully, we have been a little unsatisfied with remedy's skeletons for some time and how similar some of them are (as it does make the narrative we wish to pursue for them a little tricky), so we may use this chance to diversify their skeletons somewhat. no changes will be made without your explicit consent and without allowing you to have input. on the below form, there is a section where you can let us know if there's any skeletons changes you'd like to see us make or that you'd consider beneficial to your muse — or anything that you're simply unhappy about or consider limiting. if we do make changes to your skeleton, we'll make them based on your feedback in the form (and any additional suggestions or input given during discussions with the admin team). again, no changes will be made without your consent and any changes that are made will take your ideas and preferences into consideration, so please do not stress over this. these changes will only occur if you consent to it.

NYMTH

changes to nymth's history and timeline should be minimal, but may be impacted due to the addition of marionette. however, these should not interfere with your muse in any way and will be communicated with you. there will be no discography or image changes.

nymth's skeletons may be impacted due to the addition of marionette, but this should only impact one or two muns, who will be contacted directly regarding these changes.

and following this post, another post is scheduled to go up. we are looking to expand the admin team to make sure things go much more smoothly from here on out — so, if you are interested in being apart of the midasfm team, please do check out that post. there will be detailed descriptions of the roles we wish to fill, and a link to the application form. please follow this link to fill out the restructuring survey and please don't hesitate to ask any further questions. as mentioned, activity can proceed as normal until we've received a response from every mun.

[haru-dipthong]

My Utena Fansub Ep 2 (and Ep 1 rerelease)

Here's episode 2! A huge thank you to @dontbe-lasanya for their incredible efforts at editing my translation!

Also, episode 1 has been revised. I'll update the link on my original posts, but if you're looking at a reblog it will still have the old link. From now on, I'll be posting a link to a folder with all the episodes after each release, so you can easily find old episodes. You can find the new ep 1 and all other episodes as they release here:

Translation Discussion

Utena uses boku. There’s no way to convey this aspect of self-identified masculinity in english, so the translation needs to make up for it in other ways. One way I did this was the “Master” translation of 様 (sama), but this isn’t self-identified (in fact, Utena dislikes the use of 様). I saw a good opportunity to do this here:

まあ、一人部屋らしいから、クールな僕の趣味には合ってるよ。

I think I’ve got a room to myself. Kinda perfect for my bachelor lifestyle. (my translation)

I'm gonna have to be on the lookout in the future for other opportunities for Utena to gender themself masc!

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世界の殻を破壊せ... 世界を革命するために！

Destroy the shell... and revolutionise the world!

Other translations often translate this as "For the revolution of the world!" or "For the sake of revolutionizing the world!". I believe these translations are trying too hard to make explicit the function of ために to express purpose/aim. I think it's unnecessary - a simple "and" will do, because the fact that "revolutionising the world" is the point of "destroying the shell" is wholly self-evident through context.

-----

I didn’t have space to talk about the A-ko/B-ko translation or Zettai Unmei Mokushiroku in the first post, but there were some interesting decisions to be made!

かしら��しら、ご存じかしら？

My oh my, haven’t you heard? (my translation)

This was in important translation because it gets used so many more times in the show, and it needs to make sense in many different contexts. The shadow girls tend to echo their opening lines in their closing lines:

でも、勇者様、わざと負ける難しさをご存じかしら？ かしらかしら、ご存じかしら？

but, sir knight, haven’t you heard how hard it is to lose a fight on purpose? My oh my, haven’t you heard? (my translation)

The opening line needs to be able to be recontextualised from a relatively innocent phrase that signifies the shadow girls are gossiping, to a more sinister taunting of “the knight” for being naive (or, in the first episode, not knowing what they’re getting into).

I went with “my, oh my” for かしらかしら because it sounds a bit old fashioned and feminine, just like the Japanese. I originally had “have you heard?” but it didn’t sound nearly taunting enough when repeated in he closing lines.

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絶対運命黙示録

Certain destiny: the Revelation! (my translation)

Most existing translations have this as “Absolute Destiny: Apocalypse” or “Absolute Destiny: Revelation”.

黙示録 is the word for the Book of Revelation, from the Bible. It’s not just describing any apocalypse, but the Biblical, Christian Revelation. I think “apocalypse” has become more generic in modern English, whereas “Revelation” is decidedly Biblical. This also influenced some of the decisions to jazz up the rest of the song to emphasise the Biblical references.

The word 絶対 can means “absolute” as in “without question”, but “absolute” has other meanings besides this in modern English (e.g. “extreme”). I decided to go with “certain” because I believe the original Japanese is trying to get across the unquestionable destiny of the Revelation: “It’s absolutely going to happen”. Also, maybe I’m too online but I think “absolute” just sounds silly here. Online vernacular has made “absolute” an almost jokey word (e.g. “absolute unit”).

However, I did include the classic name of the song as the lyric at the end of the song before it goes into the syllable switching chant:

絶対運命黙示闇

Absolute destiny: Apocalypse!

Note the slight difference here in the japanese. 闇 means darkness, and 黙示闇 isn't a real word, it's just a combination of "Revelation" and "darkness". The last kanji in the more common 黙示録 means "record" as in "the records of the Revelation", the Book of Revelation. While the meaning doesn't change much with the substitution of 闇, it makes the line feel a bit darker, a bit edgier, which made it feel appropriate to include the edgier classic name of the song here.

出生登録、洗礼名簿、死亡登録

Records of childbirth, records of baptism, records of death. (my translation)

Other translations have this as “birth records” and “baptismal registry”, which I think sound awkward. “Birth records” has too few syllables for the line of the song, and doesn’t sound poetical enough, while “baptismal registry” reeks of someone looking up the word in a dictionary and plopping it in without thinking about how it would sound in a haunting apocalyptic song.

もくし くしも しもく くもし もしく しくも

Revelation, Apocalypse Apocalypse, Revelation

The syllable switching chant is impossible to translate - doing such a thing in English just makes it sound silly. Since this line comes directly after the switch up with the original song name, I decided to use the synonyms Revelation and Apocalypse in an alternating sequence to give the same impression of a haunting, cult-like chant. I think this alone makes the decision to use the original song name worth it! Really happy with how the song has turned out.